Colombia: Protesters block Pan-American Highway in Piendamo municipality, Cauca Department, July 31

Event

Indigenous protesters blocked the Pan-American Highway (Highway 25) near the Tunia settlement in Piendamo municipality, Cauca Department, July 31 to demand that the national government comply with agreements it previously reached with the community. The protest effectively severed ground transport between Popayan and Santander de Quilichao, causing increased traffic congestion along the impacted route.

Major transport disruptions are likely in the area for the duration of the protest, and heightened security is likely near the demonstration site. Clashes between protesters and police are possible, especially if police attempt to forcibly disperse the demonstrators and reopen the highway.

Advice

Avoid all protest activity as a precaution. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Allow for additional transport time. Consider delaying transport through Piendamo or seeking alternative routes until the Pan-American Highway is reopened. Heed the instructions of security personnel.